1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 56 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
