1991 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 455 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2000 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 | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
