2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna
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 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. (141 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. 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 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Magna |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
