2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
