2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2300 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4511 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1461 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
