1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 12 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 2,000 cc, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 699 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, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2919 mm |
