2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2011 Volkswagen 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
