2007 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 6. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 6.
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, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 6. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 6 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
