2011 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Honda Z
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,300 cc, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2002 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2002 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Z 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 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Z. 2002 Honda Z has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Honda Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | RX-8 | Z |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1341 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2703 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 35 L |
