2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 4 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 26 kg more than 2009 Toyota Matrix. 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
