2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 267 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
