2009 Ford Escape vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Ford Escape. (172 HP @ 6550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 368 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Escape 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 Ford Escape 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 Ford Escape (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Ford Escape 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 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
