2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka 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 1,311 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2012 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Ka.
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, 2012 Ford Ka, 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Ka. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Ka 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 | 2012 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
