1991 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 425 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
