2009 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 143 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
