2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 8 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |