2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Quantum, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum. (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Quantum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
