2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 184 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
