2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2008 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
