2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 297 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1895 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1422 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |