1996 Mazda MPV vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (114 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 269 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MPV. (277 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MPV | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MPV | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1521 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2578 mm |