1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 614 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.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
