2008 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,776 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 824 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 Jeep Wrangler (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2008 Jeep Wrangler will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3776 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1949 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
