2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Xterra 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2011 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
