Model Year | 2008 | 2009 | |
Model | Mazda RX-8 | Audi A5 / S5 | |
Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 232 hp@8500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
4.2L V8 DOHC-4v 354 hp@6800 325 lb-ft@3500 |
|
Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic | |
Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | |
Body | 4dr Coupe | 2dr Coupe | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 108.3 in | -1.9 in |
Length | 174.3 in | 182.1 in | -7.8 in |
Width | 69.7 in | 73.0 in | -3.3 in |
Height | 52.8 in | 54.0 in | -1.2 in |
Curb Weight | 3045 lb. | 3891 lb. | -846 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 16.9 gal. | -1 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.2 in | 39.1 in | -0.9 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.8 in | 54.3 in | 0.5 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 53.3 in | 0.0 in | 53.3 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.7 in | 41.3 in | 1.4 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 36.8 in | 36.0 in | 0.8 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.9 in | 52.8 in | 2.1 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 48.1 in | 0.0 in | 48.1 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 32.2 in | 31.7 in | 0.5 in |
Total Legroom | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 73 in (over 2 rows) | 1.9 in |
Cargo Volume | 7.6 ft3 | 12.0 ft3 | -4.4 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 |
2009 Audi A5 / S5 Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2009 | 2dr Coupe 265-horsepower 3.2L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
very comfortable seating, especially with S-line package see full Audi A5 / S5 review |
2008 | 2dr Coupe 354-horsepower 4.2L V8 6-speed manual AWD |
Awesome for a tall large-framed driver, with great armrests. see full Audi A5 / S5 review |
2009 Audi A5 / S5 Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2009 | 2dr Coupe turbocharged 170hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual AWD |
Not room enough for sufficient leg space for both front and rear passengers at the same time. Rear seat room is tight. Makes you want to avoid having rear passengers in the car. Typical for a 2-door. see full Audi A5 / S5 review |
2008 | 2dr Coupe 265-horsepower 3.2L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
Its a coupe. see full Audi A5 / S5 review |
2008 | 2dr Coupe 354-horsepower 4.2L V8 6-speed manual AWD |
barely fit an adult, good for toddlers only see full Audi A5 / S5 review |