2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 622 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco. (116 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
