1979 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Mazda Cosmo is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda Cosmo (93 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 270 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 1979 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1979 Mazda Cosmo (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda Cosmo | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cosmo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
