2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 2 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 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1970 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
