Mazda MAZDASPEED3 vs. Volkswagen GTI Review

Cost
The Mazda MAZDASPEED3 will tax your gas budget significantly more than the Volkswagen GTI will. The MAZDASPEED3 pales in comparison to the Volkswagen when it comes to fuel economy. With respect to MSRP, the Volkswagen GTI costs roughly as much as the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 (though the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 is slightly cheaper).

Utility
The Volkswagen and the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Convenience
The Mazda MAZDASPEED3's fuel tank will need to be replenished somewhat more often than the unit in the Volkswagen GTI.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Volkswagen offers a bit more head room than the Mazda MAZDASPEED3, there frankly isn't much of a difference. The MAZDASPEED3 is not particularly more spacious for your passengers than the Volkswagen GTI.

Dimensions
The GTI's tank is almost the same size as the Mazda MAZDASPEED3's, though the Mazda MAZDASPEED3's is a little bigger. The Volkswagen GTI and the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 compete for the same parking spaces.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the MAZDASPEED3 packs quite a punch and will knock the GTI down a few rungs. However, keep in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their comparable turning circles, the Volkswagen and the Mazda quite certainly handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Volkswagen GTI's engine is significantly smaller than the Mazda's. Note that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; on the flip side, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the MAZDASPEED3 is considerably more powerful than the Volkswagen GTI.

Warranty
The Mazda MAZDASPEED3 and the Volkswagen GTI have the same basic after-sale protection.