1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 179 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1394 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4534 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |