1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 238 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
