2008 Chevrolet Kalos vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Kalos would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Kalos, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. (104 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Kalos. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Kalos has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Kalos will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Kalos | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Kalos | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1150 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
