2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Bora
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Bora. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Bora would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Bora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Bora. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Bora. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Bora. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Bora, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Bora (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Bora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Volkswagen Bora | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Bora |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1425 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
