2008 Honda FR-V vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Honda FR-V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Honda FR-V would be higher. At 1,668 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 Honda FR-V. (123 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 41 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda FR-V. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda FR-V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | FR-V | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1466 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 61 L |
