2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 456 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer 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 Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Ford Explorer 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. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1422 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |