2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 3 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. 2011 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-8 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
