2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2012 Ford Focus. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Focus.
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 Ford Focus, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 47 L |
