2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
