2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
