2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Peugeot 407
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 Peugeot 407. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Peugeot 407 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Peugeot 407. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Peugeot 407. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 33 kg more 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 Peugeot 407, 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Peugeot 407. (163 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Peugeot 407.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-8 | 407 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| 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 | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
