2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 468 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
