2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Toyota Camry
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 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Camry. (180 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Camry weights approximately 335 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Camry, 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, 2002 Toyota Camry (279 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota Camry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2002 Toyota Camry has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Toyota Camry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Camry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1460 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
