2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,763 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 233 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
