2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Sportage. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Sportage. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Sportage will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Sportage | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Sportage | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 136 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 136 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |