2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 123 kg more than 2004 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 144 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |