1975 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
