2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (69 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1894 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 69 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |