1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 470 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
