2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Lexus ES
To start off, 2011 Lexus ES 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus ES (268 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus ES weights approximately 199 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2011 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Lexus ES 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 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | RX-8 | ES |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1624 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
