2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 291 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, 2004 Mazda 6, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
