1987 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 677 kg more than 1987 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323. 2005 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
