2008 Ford Fusion vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Fusion, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fusion | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 159 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
