2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1189 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
