2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,386 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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, 2008 Nissan Micra, 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Micra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1047 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 46 L |
