2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
