1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 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), 2010 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1261 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| 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 | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 320 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 | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
