2008 Kia Sportage vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Kia Sportage. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage 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 Kia Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
