2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Subaru Forester
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 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Forester. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Subaru Forester weights approximately 40 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1999 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Subaru Forester (240 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1999 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
