2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
