2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 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 26 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 29 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2512 mm |