1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 292 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
