1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 373 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 818 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2580 mm |
