1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda 323 (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 95 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 Mazda 323 (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
