1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 20 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 432 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.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 639 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1910 mm |
