1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 605 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (195 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1417 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
