2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 845 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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 T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 18.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
