1987 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 484 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 323 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1987 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 101 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |