2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 193 kg more than 1992 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, 1992 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
