1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 358 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2537 mm |
