2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 562 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
