2008 Honda FR-V vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Honda FR-V. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda FR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 57 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V, 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda FR-V. (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda FR-V. 2008 Honda FR-V has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda FR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | FR-V | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1449 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 61 L |
