2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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 Kia Sportage, 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 Kia Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
