1986 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 300 kg more than 1986 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
