1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 5 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
