2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 171 kg more 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 Mazda 3, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |