2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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 6 (226 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
