2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix

To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (290 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster 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, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mazda RX-8 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
Make Mazda Pontiac
Model RX-8 Grand Prix
Year Released 2009 2004
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1306 cc 5326 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary V
Horse Power 232 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 8500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 441 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 5060 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 64 L