2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Golf |
Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1594 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |