1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 23 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 424 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 1989 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | GTD |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
