1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 601 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2470 mm |
