1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 550 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2578 mm |
