2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda Marathon (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda Marathon should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 412 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Marathon (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Marathon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Marathon | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1422 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1105 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
