2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
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 New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
