2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (161 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6. 2009 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
