2009 Dodge Ram vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 301 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 552 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3560 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 61 L |
