Dodge Challenger vs. Mazda RX-8 Review

Performance
With respect to horsepower, the Challenger packs quite a punch and will knock the Mazda RX-8 down a few rungs. On the flip side, bear in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums. With that kind of horsepower, the Dodge is a genuine speedster.

Handling
With their similar turning radii, the Challenger and the Mazda RX-8 most certainly handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Dodge Challenger's engine is tremendously bigger than the Mazda RX-8's. Keep in mind that more massive engines may use more gas than smaller ones. The Dodge Challenger packs quite a wallop compared to the Mazda as far as torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly. Torque equals pickup, and the Challenger will have picked up and gone by the time the RX-8 finally gets moving.

Utility
Drivers with frequent kid-duty might favor the Dodge Challenger over the Mazda.

Convenience
You'll definitely have to take the Mazda RX-8 for a fill-up more often than the Dodge Challenger because of its tank size and fuel economy.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Dodge Challenger's front cabin compared to the Mazda. While the rear of the Dodge Challenger provides a bit more head- and leg-room than the RX-8, there really isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The Mazda RX-8's tank is approximately the same size as the Dodge Challenger's, though the Dodge Challenger's is a tad bigger. The Mazda RX-8 and the Dodge Challenger compete for the same parking spaces. The Dodge Challenger's longer wheelbase will likely result in a smoother, more stable ride; on the other hand, the Mazda RX-8 may give a more agile feel in daily traffic.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs almost the same to get the Dodge Challenger to the dealership as the Mazda RX-8. Producing an exact gas mileage evaluation is so tough that some think not even the federal government can do it, but it looks as though both the Dodge and the Dodge perform roughly similarly as far as gas mileage. As far as MSRP, the Dodge doesn't cost much less than the Mazda.

Warranty
The Dodge Challenger and the RX-8 have the same basic after-sale protection.