2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2001 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Xterra 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
