1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 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 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 367 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.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
