2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Saturn L
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 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Saturn L. (182 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 339 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, 2005 Saturn L, 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, 2005 Saturn L (258 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-8 | L |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
