2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (207 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 182 kg more than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger will offer significantly more control. 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 Ranger (323 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 61 L |
