2006 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 240 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 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 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8
Make Mazda Mazda
Model 3 RX-8
Year Released 2006 2009
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1306 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 105 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 8200 RPM
Torque 145 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
Top Speed 185 km/hour 235 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11 seconds 6.4 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1185 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.2 L/100km 11.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 61 L


 

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