2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 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 41 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 42 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
