2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Noble M12
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 Noble M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Noble M12 would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 279 kg more than 2002 Noble M12.
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, 2002 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Noble |
| Model | RX-8 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
