2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | RX-8 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 83 L |
