1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volkswagen Golf (109 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1982 Volkswagen Golf (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1982 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1982 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
