2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 156 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 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
