2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mazda 3, 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 RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |