2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
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 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-8 | Vaneo |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1840 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2970 mm |