2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
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 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 252 kg more than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1170 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
