2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1470 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 795 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |