1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1457 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2510 mm |
