2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 322 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
