2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 1 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 110 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 61 L |
