2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 1 kg more than 1998 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |