2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 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 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 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 | 1425 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 | 12.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
