2006 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 290 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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 Ford Focus, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |
