1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 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), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 252 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
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 | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |