1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 290 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
