2009 Mazda Tribute vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,483 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 375 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2009 Mazda Tribute (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda Tribute has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda Tribute will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2483 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
