1999 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 142 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | New Beetle | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
