2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 36 kg more 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
