2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 CX-7, 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 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2012 Mazda CX-7 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 CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | CX-7 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2300 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1718 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4681 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1646 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 69 L |