2006 Chevrolet Uplander vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Uplander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Uplander would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Uplander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Uplander. (202 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Uplander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander weights approximately 935 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Uplander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Uplander | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Uplander | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 61 L |
