1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 225 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2651 mm |