2008 Honda Civic vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic. 2008 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2615 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 189 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
