2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 518 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1986 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 229 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 159 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 907 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |