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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 279 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 186 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
