2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Honda Z
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,311 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 169 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Z, 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z. 1999 Honda Z has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Honda Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | RX-8 | Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 654 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
