2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2008 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Solstice |
Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2420 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 49 L |