2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2007 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Altima weights approximately 32 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Nissan Altima, 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, 2007 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Altima 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 | 2007 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |
