1992 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 323 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 275 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
