2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda 6, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
