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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 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 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 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.
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 | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| 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 | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
