2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mazda Atenza
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Atenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Atenza would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Atenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Atenza. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Atenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 99 kg more than 2001 Mazda Atenza. 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, 2001 Mazda Atenza, 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, 2001 Mazda Atenza (240 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda Atenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Mazda Atenza 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. 2001 Mazda Atenza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mazda Atenza | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | Atenza |
Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |