2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Nissan Primera
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 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Primera. (112 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 19 kg more than 2002 Nissan Primera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Nissan Primera, 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Primera. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Primera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Primera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
