1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 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 (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
