Mazda 3 SP23 and Golf Pacific FSI

Like its sedan sibling, the six-speed manual SP23 hatchback opens its bid at $29,600, or at $31,600 for the Luxury version which further enhances the already competitive equipment level with 17-inch alloy wheels, partial leather trim and premium audio system.

Either way, the five-speed automatic alternative adds $2260 to the bottom line. To Mazda's credit, the SP23 alone in this eight-hatch group offers metallic paint as a no-cost option.

On the other hand, Mazda cites comparatively short six-month/10,000km service intervals; like most Japanese makes in Australia. In contrast Volkswagen, like most Europeans, nominate appreciably less frequent visits to your local friendly service centre.

The Golf Pacific FSI asks $29,990 as a six-speed manual, or $32,290 with six-speed automatic. Corresponding Jetta sedans are three grand costlier. Apart from $690 metallic paint, the Golf's fairly extensive options list is one of the few here featuring a sunroof ($1890).

According to price-guide The Redbook, the three-year retained value of both models currently stands at around 65 per cent, among the best in this group.

They have different diets however. The Golf stipulates 98RON premium fuel whereas the SP23 asks only for 91RON. The difference in petrol pricing obviates variations between the Golf's 8.0L/100km economy and the Mazda's 8.6L/100km usage. Both have 55-litre tanks.

Their specifications also coincide on points such as four-wheel disc brakes, strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, six airbags and all the expected electronic braking and handling aids. However, the Mazda differs with 17-inch wheels to the VW's 16s, and in its steering having electro-hydraulic power assistance to the Golf's electro-mechanical system.

The Golf's 10.9m turning circle is quite crisp by the class standards, but the Mazda shaves that by a half metre. Although the Mazda's amply large boot is shaded by the voluminous Volksy, the SP23 has the slightly longer wheelbase and is about 220mm longer overall. Even so, it's only some six kg heavier than the 1290kg Golf.

No surprise, then (given the rivals' similar power and torque outputs), that their invitingly lusty performances are competitively close. The SP23 manages a slight edge overall, punching through the gears from 0-100km/h, for example, in a bit under 8.5sec, while the Golf takes a moment or so more.

Not much separates their driving dynamics either, for both have co-operatively obedient handling with good sense of balance, and provide ride quality that's properly disciplined without being discomforting.

WHICH ONE?
Judged on facts and figures, and driving involvement too, this particular pair comes about as close to a draw as any two cars can be. Of course, that means the final choice is subject to personal preferences.

If pressed, one could lean toward the 3 SP23 by the slightest of margins. For while it has no answer to the Golf Pacific's second-to-none perception of quality and Euro-chic, the Mazda zoom-zooms ahead for sportiness.

See also
» Citroen C4 2.0 VTS Coupe and Astra 1.8 SRi Coupe (more here)
» Alfa Romeo 147 Monza 2.0 and Volvo C30 2.4i (more here)
» Renault Clio Renaultsport 197 and Honda Civic Type R (more here)

Article by Mike McCarthy. Updated 2009 by the Carsales Network