2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 2 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1080 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |