1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 113 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2512 mm |