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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 408 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 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 178 HP |
Torque | 216 Nm | 371 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |