2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 27 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
