2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 159 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1984 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
