1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (151 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 279 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 Passat (279 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
