2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
