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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 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. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 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, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 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 | 2259 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |