1991 Mazda 626 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Mazda 626 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda 626 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Mazda 626 (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 626 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
