2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 178 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (60 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 253 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (113 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
