2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |