2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max, 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
