1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 174 kg more than 1996 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
