2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1348 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
