2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 5 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
