2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 25 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
