2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 239 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
