2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Corolla.
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 Toyota Corolla, 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (130 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Corolla. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 2004 Toyota Corolla 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 | 2004 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
