1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1388 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |