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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 1306 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
