2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2703 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |