2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Taurus X. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Taurus X would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (212 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 304 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X, 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 Taurus X (339 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus X | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus X | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 64 L |
