1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,324 cc, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (167 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 257 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2324 cc |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
