1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 15 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 4,920 cc (10 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1230 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.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 534 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 4920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2890 mm |
