2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 298 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.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
