2008 Mazda 5 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 5 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 5. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 3.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
