2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2008 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 345 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |