2002 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 198 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.3 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 5.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
