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 @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 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 | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2578 mm |
