1991 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 401 kg more than 1991 Mazda 626. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 626 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1521 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
