2009 Mazda Tribute 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 Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 307 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 Tribute (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
