2009 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Focus (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.7 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
