2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
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 | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1358 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4201 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |