2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 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 Hyundai Elantra, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (136 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
