1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2512 mm |
