2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2007 Suzuki XL7 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Suzuki XL7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Suzuki XL7 (250 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Suzuki XL7 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Suzuki XL7, 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 Suzuki XL7 (330 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2007 Suzuki XL7 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Suzuki XL7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | RX-8 | XL7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
