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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) 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 515 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 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 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 | 1324 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
Torque | 104 Nm | 225 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |