Model Year | 2008 | 2021 | |
Model | Mazda RX-8 | Subaru Legacy | |
Engine | 1.3L R2 OHV-2v 212 hp@7500 159 lb-ft@5500 |
turbocharged 2.4L H4 DOHC-4v 260 hp@5600 277 lb-ft@2000 |
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Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable CVT | |
Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | |
Body | 4dr Coupe | 4dr Sedan | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 106.4 in | 108.3 in | -1.9 in |
Length | 174.3 in | 190.6 in | -16.3 in |
Width | 69.7 in | 72.4 in | -2.7 in |
Height | 52.8 in | 59.1 in | -6.3 in |
Curb Weight | 3075 lb. | 3779 lb. | -704 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 18.5 gal. | -2.6 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 38.2 in | 39.4 in | -1.2 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 54.8 in | 58.1 in | -3.3 in |
Hip Room, Row 1 | 53.3 in | 0.0 in | 53.3 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.7 in | 42.8 in | -0.1 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 36.8 in | 37.2 in | -0.4 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.9 in | 57.4 in | -2.5 in |
Hip Room, Row 2 | 48.1 in | 0.0 in | 48.1 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 32.2 in | 39.5 in | -7.3 in |
Total Legroom | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 82.3 in (over 2 rows) | -7.4 in |
Cargo Volume | 7.6 ft3 | 15.1 ft3 | -7.5 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 |
2021 Subaru Legacy Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2021 | 4dr Sedan turbocharged 260hp 2.4L H4 8-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Front seats are softly padded in a way that is uncommon in modern vehicles. Driver's seat adjustments are above average, as there is an adjustable thigh support. Passenger seats lack lumbar adjustment and thigh support extensions, but have full 8-way power including seat-bottom tilt and height adjustment.
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Some drivers complain the lumbar support is intrusive, while others complain it's too subtle. Remember to sit in a seat and get a feel for yourself, as it is very subjective.
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The driver's seat has the option of a facial recognition system that is fairly reliable if used correctly and a useful feature that is not common in other cars. Memory buttons remain on the door for those that prefer them.
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The details that count: According to the owner's manual, the facial recognition system's software is open-source and data remains in the vehicle.
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2021 Subaru Legacy Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2021 | 4dr Sedan turbocharged 260hp 2.4L H4 8-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
The Mazda6 has a smaller rear seat, no way around it. That being said, I find it to be more richly appointed than the Legacy's with the same great materials as up-front and cool touches: the USB ports are in the center armrest with a covered storage cubby, and the rear seat heaters are 3-level with controls in the armrest. These touches are reminiscent of very high-end luxury cars and are more convenient locations in general. The Mazda's heated rear seats also seem to be stronger than the Legacy's. --- The seats follow the same theme as the front in both cars- softer/plusher in the Legacy, firmer but well shaped in the Mazda. --- The front seat-backs are more upscale in the Mazda, and the rear seat of the Mazda has ambient lighting in the door pockets (unlike the Legacy). Overall, the rear cabin of the Mazda is snugger but remains comfortable while carrying on the quality and elegance of the front. For space though, the Legacy still grabs a Win here. see full Subaru Legacy review |