1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1261 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 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
