2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 5 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), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 166 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | RX-8 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1259 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 46 L |
