2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
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 W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | W12 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 5584 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | W |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.3 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1152 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1010 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |