1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1981 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen 1302 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 323 (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 323 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1977 Volkswagen 1302 (85 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Volkswagen 1302 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1977 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
