1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. Both 1997 Mazda MX-3 and 2008 Volkswagen Golf are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 198 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
