1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.6 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 Length | 4210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
