2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,311 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
