2006 Mazda 5 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda 5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2006 Mazda 5 (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 5 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
