2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (88 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
