2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (83 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 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 Toyota Corolla, 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
