2007 Mazda 6 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 6. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 6 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 6. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 6 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1381 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
