1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 59 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
