2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (113 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 42 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 5, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
