2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Nissan Primera
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 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Primera (112 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Primera should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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 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, 2003 Nissan Primera (163 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Primera has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Primera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Primera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
