2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
