2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Buick Regal
To start off, 2012 Buick Regal is newer by 3 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Buick Regal. (182 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Buick Regal.
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, 2012 Buick Regal, 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, 2012 Buick Regal (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2012 Buick Regal 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. 2012 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Buick Regal | |
| Make | Mazda | Buick |
| Model | RX-8 | Regal |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4831 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2738 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 68 L |
