1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 314 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
