2000 Mazda Protege vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda Protege. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda Protege would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2000 Mazda Protege. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda Protege. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda Protege weights approximately 439 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda Protege. (164 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda Protege.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda Protege | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Protege | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
