2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
