2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
