2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
