2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Mazda 5
To start off, 2011 Mazda 5 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 5. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 5 weights approximately 161 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, 2011 Mazda 5, 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, 2011 Mazda 5 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 5 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 | 2011 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
