2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda 6, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6. 2008 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 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 | 1180 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
