1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (112 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1994 Mazda 323 (157 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
