1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 224 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
