2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.3 seconds | 9.5 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 | 1155 kg | 1290 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 | 7.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
