2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2000 Nissan Maxima. (222 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 112 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2000 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2000 Nissan Maxima (292 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2000 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2952 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
