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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster 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 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 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 | 1598 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
