Model Year | 2008 | 2006 | |
Model | Mazda RX-8 | Nissan Xterra | |
Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 212 hp@7500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
4.0L V6 DOHC-4v 265 hp@5600 284 lb-ft@4000 |
|
Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 5-speed automatic | |
Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | |
Body | 4dr Coupe | 4dr SUV | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 106.3 in | 0.1 in |
Length | 174.3 in | 178.7 in | -4.4 in |
Width | 69.7 in | 72.8 in | -3.1 in |
Height | 52.8 in | 74.9 in | -22.1 in |
Curb Weight | 3075 lb. | 4165 lb. | -1090 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 21.1 gal. | -5.2 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.2 in | 39.9 in | -1.7 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.8 in | 58.3 in | -3.5 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 53.3 in | 55.9 in | -2.6 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.7 in | 42.4 in | 0.3 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 36.8 in | 39.3 in | -2.5 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.9 in | 58.3 in | -3.4 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 48.1 in | 46.1 in | 2 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 32.2 in | 34.4 in | -2.2 in |
Total Legroom | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 76.8 in (over 2 rows) | -1.9 in |
Cargo Volume, Minimum | 7.6 ft3 | 35.2 ft3 | -27.6 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Maximum | 7.6 ft3 | 65.7 ft3 | -58.1 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 |
2006 Nissan Xterra Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2006 | 4dr SUV 265-horsepower 4.0L V6 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range |
The seats are supportive without being rigid. I like the easy to clean, removable seating material. see full Nissan Xterra review |
2006 Nissan Xterra Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2006 | 4dr SUV 265-horsepower 4.0L V6 6-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range |
The rear seat on the XTerra is not spacious, but it is sufficient for shorter adults, kids, and pets. At 6'4", I'm cramped and the narrow door opening doesn't help with access. Still, it's far less clastrophobic than the FJ Cruiser. see full Nissan Xterra review |