2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Versa. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Versa weights approximately 122 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 Nissan Versa, 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Versa |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1251 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
