2009 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 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 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-9.
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 CX-9, 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-9 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3726 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 61 L |
