| Model Year | 2008 | 2011 | |
| Model | Mazda RX-8 | Ford Explorer | |
| Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 212 hp@7500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
3.5L V6 DOHC-4v 290 hp@6500 255 lb-ft@4000 |
|
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed automatic | |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | |
| Body | 4dr Coupe | 4dr SUV | |
| Difference | |||
| Wheelbase | 2,703 mm | 2,860 mm | 0 mm |
| Length | 4,427 mm | 5,006 mm | -1 mm |
| Width | 1,770 mm | 2,004 mm | -1 mm |
| Height | 1,341 mm | 1,788 mm | 0 mm |
| Curb Weight | 1,395 kg | 2,156 kg | -1 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 60 L | 70 L | -10 L |
| Headroom, Row 1 | 970 mm | 1,031 mm | 969 mm |
| Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 1,392 mm | 1,557 mm | 0 mm |
| Hip Room, Row 1 | 1,354 mm | 1,455 mm | 0 mm |
| Legroom, Row 1 | 1,085 mm | 1,031 mm | 0 mm |
| Headroom, Row 2 | 935 mm | 1,029 mm | 934 mm |
| Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 1,394 mm | 1,549 mm | 0 mm |
| Hip Room, Row 2 | 1,222 mm | 1,440 mm | 0 mm |
| Legroom, Row 2 | 818 mm | 1,011 mm | 817 mm |
| Headroom, Row 3 | 0 mm | 960 mm | -960 mm |
| Shoulder Room, Row 3 | 0 mm | 1,290 mm | -1 mm |
| Hip Room, Row 3 | 0 mm | 1,034 mm | -1 mm |
| Legroom, Row 3 | 0 mm | 843 mm | -843 mm |
| Total Legroom | 1,902 mm (over 2 rows) | 2,885 mm (over 3 rows) | -1 mm |
| Cargo Volume, Minimum | 215 L | 595 L | -380 L |
| Cargo Volume, Behind R2 | 7.6 | 1,240 L | 6.6 |
| Cargo Volume, Maximum | 7.6 | 2,285 L | 5.6 |
| 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 |
None of our members have yet commented on the seat room and comfort of the 2011 Ford Explorer.