2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 337 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
