Model Year | 2008 | 2007 | |
Model | Mazda RX-8 | Acura RL | |
Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 212 hp@7500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
3.5L V6 OHC-4v 290 hp@6200 256 lb-ft@5000 |
|
Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic | |
Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | |
Body | 4dr Coupe | 4dr Sedan | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 110.2 in | -3.8 in |
Length | 174.3 in | 193.6 in | -19.3 in |
Width | 69.7 in | 72.2 in | -2.5 in |
Height | 52.8 in | 57.1 in | -4.3 in |
Curb Weight | 3075 lb. | 4012 lb. | -937 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 19.4 gal. | -3.5 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.2 in | 38.5 in | -0.3 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.8 in | 58.5 in | -3.7 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 53.3 in | 55.1 in | -1.8 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.7 in | 42.4 in | 0.3 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 36.8 in | 37.2 in | -0.4 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.9 in | 56.1 in | -1.2 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 48.1 in | 54.0 in | -5.9 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 32.2 in | 36.3 in | -4.1 in |
Total Legroom | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 78.7 in (over 2 rows) | -3.8 in |
Cargo Volume | 7.6 ft3 | 13.1 ft3 | -5.5 ft3 |
2008 Mazda RX-8 Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2009 | 4dr Coupe 232-horsepower 1.3L R2 6-speed manual RWD |
Very comfortable Recaro seats, even on long drives. Larger people may not be comfortable so beware. see full Mazda RX-8 review |
2009 | 4dr Coupe 232-horsepower 1.3L R2 6-speed manual RWD |
Given the RX-8's compact dimensions, you wouldn't expect rear seat space to be a strength. But thanks to clever packaging and a subtly high roofline, there is actually space for real adults in back, provided those up front are short or move their seats up somewhat. With a pair of pickup-like rear-opening "half" rear doors, ingress and egress for rear seat passengers is a snap. For those who want a sports car but have children or need to transport a few friends occassionally, the RX-8 fits the bill nicely. see full Mazda RX-8 review |
2007 | 4dr Coupe 212-horsepower 1.3L R2 6-speed shiftable automatic RWD |
Excellent for long trips. Even though I suffer from spinal stenosis, I did a two-day 1800 mile trip with no troubles and felt great on arrival. Most modern cars have comfortable seats, but these also make me feel like I am part of the car. see full Mazda RX-8 review |
2007 Acura RL Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2007 | 4dr Sedan 290-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
A little tight up front especially when compared to the M35 which is very roomy. see full Acura RL review |
2007 | 4dr Sedan 290-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
Again, tight when compared to the M35. see full Acura RL review |