2008 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 616 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Spark, 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 RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (70 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Spark | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Spark | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 2616 cc |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 776 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 61 L |
