1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Let's talk about torque, 1979 Volkswagen Golf (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
