2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 234 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4868 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1835 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1487 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2803 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |