1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,000 cc, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 924 kg more than 1988 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1904 mm |
