1976 Mazda RX-4 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 RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 121 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mazda RX-4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2590 mm |
