2009 Ford Focus vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 53 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
