2006 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,262 cc, 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (151 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 2006 Ford Focus (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1308 cc |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |
