2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 257 kg more than 2004 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2004 Mazda 2 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.1 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
