2006 Lexus RX vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Lexus RX. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus RX weights approximately 202 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX, 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 Lexus RX (323 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus RX | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | RX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 61 L |
