| Model Year | 2015 | 2008 | |
| Model | Subaru WRX | Mazda RX-8 | |
| Engine | |||
| Transmission | |||
| Drivetrain | |||
| Body | 4dr Sedan | 4dr Coupe | |
| Difference | |||
| Wheelbase | 104.3 in | 106.4 in | -2.1 in |
| Length | 180.9 in | 174.3 in | 6.6 in |
| Width | 70.7 in | 69.7 in | 1 in |
| Height | 58.1 in | 52.8 in | 5.3 in |
| Curb Weight | 3267 lb. | 3045 lb. | 222 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.9 gal. | 15.9 gal. | 0 gal. |
| Headroom, Row 1 | 39.8 in | 38.2 in | 1.6 in |
| Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 55.6 in | 54.8 in | 0.8 in |
| Hip Room, Row 1 | 52.2 in | 53.3 in | -1.1 in |
| Legroom, Row 1 | 43.3 in | 42.7 in | 0.6 in |
| Headroom, Row 2 | 37.1 in | 36.8 in | 0.3 in |
| Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 54.2 in | 54.9 in | -0.7 in |
| Hip Room, Row 2 | 53.1 in | 48.1 in | 5 in |
| Legroom, Row 2 | 35.4 in | 32.2 in | 3.2 in |
| Total Legroom | 78.7 in (over 2 rows) | 74.9 in (over 2 rows) | 3.8 in |
| Cargo Volume | 12.0 ft3 | 7.6 ft3 | 4.4 ft3 |
| 2015 Subaru WRX Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
| Year | Comment | |
| 2015 | The Subaru WRX has always been fun to drive. But it used to be cramped inside, especially in the back seat. This is no longer an issue. The new car has more rear seat legroom than the one-size-up Legacy had during its 2005-2009 glory days. Unless your friends and family are tall, they'll fit in back. While the GTI's back seat is nearly as roomy, the Focus ST's isn't in the same ballpark. If you want rear air vents for your passengers, though, you'll have to get the VW or the Ford. Subaru doesn't offer them in the WRX. see full Subaru WRX review | |
| 2015 Subaru WRX Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
| Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
| 2016 | 4dr Sedan turbocharged 268hp 2.0L H4 6-speed manual AWD |
Anyone whose owned a previous-gen WRX knows rear seat space, especially leg room, as "OK" at best. Subaru has revised the rear seats to where there is now more leg room for the lucky passengers in the rear. With the driver seat adjusted to how I sit (I'm 6-feet tall and have a more upright seating position), there is about 1.5 inches of space between my knees and the driver seat back (vs. no space on the previous gen!). Comfort is pretty good, although the seats take on more of a lean on the seat back, which may/may not jive well with your passengers backs. see full Subaru WRX review |
| 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 |