1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 54 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 75.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |