1976 Mazda 818 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 222 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda 818 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 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 818 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2520 mm |
