2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |