1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 434 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1284 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |