2008 Kia Rio vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 319 kg more than 2008 Kia Rio.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio. 2008 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 189 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1101 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
