2012 Mazda 6 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 4 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (193 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 6 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4755 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1795 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
