2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 2010 Volkswagen 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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-8 | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
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 Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |