1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 137 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mazda RX-4 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-4 | Golf |
Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |