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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 2 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
