2002 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6.
Because 2002 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (220 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6. 2002 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
