2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 5 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic.

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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2011 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2011 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Mazda RX-8 2011 Honda Civic
Make Mazda Honda
Model RX-8 Civic
Year Released 2006 2011
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1311 cc 1800 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 212 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 7500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4300 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Fuel Consumption Highway 9.4 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 13.1 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 50 L