1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 408 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (226 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| 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 | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
