2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Pontiac G6
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G6 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G6 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2009 Pontiac G6.
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 Pontiac G6, 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, 2009 Pontiac G6 (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Pontiac G6 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. 2009 Pontiac G6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Pontiac G6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | G6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
