2009 Mazda CX-7 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 Mazda CX-7 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 will offer significantly more control. 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 CX-7 (350 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-7 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | CX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
