2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2006 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. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1966 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 8.2 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 | 1420 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |