2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 110 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1175 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |