2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 3 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), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 273 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
