1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 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, 2011 Mazda 6 (193 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2789 mm |
