2001 Mazda 626 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Mazda 626 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 626 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1997 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, 2001 Mazda 626 (230 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 626 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
