2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 179 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1987 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 216 Nm | 97 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |