2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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, 1976 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |