2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 166 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 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1231 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
