2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2006 Toyota Prius is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Toyota Prius. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Prius, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Prius. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
