2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2010 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 2010 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2010 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
