2008 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus, 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3495 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |