2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 447 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 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:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
