1986 Mazda 626 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 626 (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 208 kg more than 1986 Mazda 626.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Mazda 626 (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 626 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
