2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 New Beetle, 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 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1292 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |