Mazda RX8 R3 vs Scirocco 1.4 TSI
March 5, 2010 · Print This Article
2009 Mazda RX8 R3 stock 231 bhp VERSUS 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI tuned from 170 bhp to 220 bhp. The torque given by the turbo and compressor setup places the scirocco as the winner in an inline race.
i work at a used car dealer and every rx8 we have delt with is a turd. i just wanted you all to...
December 31st, 2010 at 10:24 pm
I just traded a a 1977 VW Scirocco for a 2006 RX8.
I’ve driven the new Scirocco platform, it uses the same chassis as my friends Mk5 VW GTi. My 1977 Scirocco had the stock 1.6L in it, but was mildly tuned with cam, bored 040 and forged pistons. The 4speed was replaced with a 5 speed off a MK|| jetta. The VW was light enough for two 170lb 20yo guys to lift and park. The new MKIV Scirocco is over 3000lbs/1500kg. With 205mm tires and nuespeed springs and upper and lower strut braces, it felt quick like a toy. Increadibly light and sharp handling. Still, lap times or quarter mile at the track aren’t any better than my Dad’s Dodge Minivan. The small valve 1.6L may sound rev-tastic, but honestly lacks any real power at any RPM. I think mine was making an honest 90hp even with the blueprinting. The newer 2.0T motor in the MK5 platform won best engine award for a reason, drive one and you’ll see its a great motor. I have not driven the Diesel. It is not common in the Seattle area.
The RX8 is a whole different game. Supercar status. Feels like a turbo’d 1.3L gas piston motor. While It feel MUCH lighter compared to Audi, Subaru, Supra and other cars I have driven, it also lacks torque, as expected of a small displacement motor. Power comes on at around 4500 to 5500 RPM. At the Rev limiter, it still wants to go past 14k RPM. Sings like a Formula 1 when your windows are open going thru a tunnel. Strait cut gears make turbine whine that sings to your senses. This does NOT have a motor you would like if your into Mustangs, Vette, Supra. This is a engine that is 1/4 the size and weighs less than half of a american V8. The motor is next to the gas petal under the Radio, so it designed for handling. Gas mileage is worse than a 6.3L Corvette. I’m getting 12.2mpg if I behave.
Handling is pretty much neutral on the RX8. A Drivers car. It goes where you tell it to. Nice Balance, predictability, well designed suspension. Electronic Showa steering rack is super light. It has slightly more feedback than force feedback video game steering wheel, and your input is mouse click fast. With the Bridgestone Potenza stock size tires it did everything well. Even my new cheap Falcons - it feels in control at any speed, on any back road. Freeway on ramps are launchpads.
My opinion after driving both 2006 VW GTi Turbo 2.0L and owning the 2006 RX8; the GTi is point an shoot. Power right away, but lacks suspension. Front drive Front engine and it feels like it. The rear tires keep the bumper from dragging on the ground. Super Basic rear end. The GTi/Scirocco platform IS fun, but the RX8 feels like its in the super car/Lotus/Austin Martin DB9/S2000 territory. RX8 has a better interior, better seats, lower seat height, and four seats, and four doors. So you don’t have to get a minvan when SHE decides you want kids.
Kris
kassenz@yahoo