2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1355 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |