2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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 RX-8 (211 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | RX-8 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
