2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |