2009 Mazda 2 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 2. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 2. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 2. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2512 mm |
