2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (163 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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 RX-8 (216 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (210 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | RX-8 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
