1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 13 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 624 kg more than 1989 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, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2002 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
