2008 Lincoln MKZ vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lincoln MKZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lincoln MKZ (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lincoln MKZ weights approximately 927 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKZ, 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 Lincoln MKZ (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Lincoln MKZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Lincoln MKZ has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lincoln MKZ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lincoln MKZ | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | MKZ | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2355 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 61 L |
