2008 Kia Spectra5 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, both 2008 Kia Spectra5 and 2008 Mazda RX-8 were released in the same year (2008). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra5. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 137 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra5, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra5. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra5 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra5 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |
