2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle (152 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
