2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |