2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Highlander. (184 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 323 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2013 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Mazda | Toyota |
Model | RX-8 | Highlander |
Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2700 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 184 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 105 mm |
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 | 1422 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2790 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 73 L |