1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 208 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
