2006 Mazda Tribute vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda Tribute 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda Tribute (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Tribute will offer significantly more control. 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 Tribute (262 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda Tribute | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
