1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1367 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
