2008 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 332 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8, 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, 2008 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 61 L |
