2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 583 kg more than 1981 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, 1981 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 845 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 |