2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Nissan Cube

To start off, 2011 Nissan Cube 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 Nissan Cube is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Cube. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Cube. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2011 Nissan Cube. 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, 2011 Nissan Cube, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Cube. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Cube.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Mazda RX-8 2011 Nissan Cube
Make Mazda Nissan
Model RX-8 Cube
Year Released 2006 2011
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1308 cc 1800 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 122 HP
Engine RPM 8200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4800 RPM
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 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1428 kg 1268 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1694 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1651 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 50 L