2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Pontiac Piranha
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 Pontiac Piranha. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Pontiac Piranha would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Piranha is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. (212 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Piranha 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 Pontiac Piranha, 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 (211 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. (203 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. 2000 Pontiac Piranha 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. 2000 Pontiac Piranha will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Pontiac Piranha | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | RX-8 | Piranha |
Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2199 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 212 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |