2007 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 252 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | New Beetle | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1159 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
