2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
