2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 6 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 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 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | RX-8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2649 mm |
