2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2009 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (143 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki SX4 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4, 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki SX4 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 2009 Suzuki SX4 has manual transmission. 2009 Suzuki SX4 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 | 2009 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | RX-8 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 110 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
