

Model Year | 2008 | 2007 | |
Model | Mazda RX-8 | Ford Explorer | |
Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 212 hp@7500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
4.6L V8 OHC-3v 292 hp@5750 300 lb-ft@3950 |
|
Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed automatic | |
Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | |
Body | 4dr Coupe | 4dr SUV | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 113.7 in | -7.3 in |
Length | 174.3 in | 193.4 in | -19.1 in |
Width | 69.7 in | 73.7 in | -4 in |
Height | 52.8 in | 72.8 in | -20 in |
Curb Weight | 3075 lb. | 4531 lb. | -1456 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 22.5 gal. | -6.6 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.2 in | 39.8 in | -1.6 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.8 in | 59.0 in | -4.2 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 53.3 in | 55.4 in | -2.1 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.7 in | 42.4 in | 0.3 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 36.8 in | 38.7 in | -1.9 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.9 in | 58.9 in | -4 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 48.1 in | 55.5 in | -7.4 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 32.2 in | 36.9 in | -4.7 in |
Headroom, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 37.4 in | -37.4 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 53.1 in | -53.1 in |
Hip Room, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 45.3 in | -45.3 in |
Legroom, Row 3 | 0.0 in | 34.9 in | -34.9 in |
Total Legroom | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 114.2 in (over 3 rows) | -39.3 in |
Cargo Volume, Minimum | 7.6 ft3 | 13.6 ft3 | -6 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Behind R2 | 7.6 | 43.9 ft3 | -36.3 |
Cargo Volume, Maximum | 7.6 ft3 | 83.7 ft3 | -76.1 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 Ford Explorer Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2008 | 4dr SUV 210-horsepower 4.0L V6 5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range |
the front seat has plenty of leg room and seats hug you see full Ford Explorer review |
2006 | 4dr SUV 292-horsepower 4.6L V8 6-speed automatic 4WD w/low range |
Have driven from Maryland to Florida and back a couple of times, as well as 3-4 hours trips routinely. Seats are comfortable with no backache and don't have to stop every couple of hours due to fatigue. Could drive and be comfortable all day long. see full Ford Explorer review |