2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 11 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, 2004 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 220 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |