2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 145 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
