2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1373 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |