2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 301 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 61 L |
