2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 2. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 238 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2. 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
