2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1453 mm |
