2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 296 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
