1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 379 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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 Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2712 mm |
