2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 74 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |