2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.1 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |