1976 Mazda 1000 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 636 kg more than 1976 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda 1000 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 1976 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 1000. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1976 Mazda 1000 has manual transmission. 1976 Mazda 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 1000 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 987 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2578 mm |
