2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
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 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2011 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 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 Width | 1780 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
