1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 1989 Mazda 323 (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
