2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
