2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Porsche 996 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 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, 2002 Porsche 996 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (371 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 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 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-8 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
