2009 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 193 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ka, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (136 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
