2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 351 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 978 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |