1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 54 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
