2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Hyundai Tucson
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Tucson 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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 Hyundai Tucson, 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, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (198 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai Tucson has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai Tucson 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 Hyundai Tucson | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-8 | Tucson |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1656 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
