2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Mini Cooper. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mini Cooper.
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, 2005 Mini Cooper, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mini Cooper. (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | RX-8 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
