2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 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 14 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 233 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
