1977 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 313 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-3 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. 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, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
