2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 228 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, 2007 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 16.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1293 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
