2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |