1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 137 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
