2006 Honda Civic vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Honda Civic is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,799 cc, 2006 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2006 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2006 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Civic, 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Civic | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1308 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
