1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Fusca is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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 Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1997 Volkswagen Fusca | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Fusca |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1583 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 52 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 105 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |