1998 Volkswagen Microbus vs. 2002 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 2002 Mazda Laputa is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (52 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 910 kg more than 2002 Mazda Laputa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda Laputa, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda Laputa. 2002 Mazda Laputa has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mazda Laputa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | 2002 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Microbus | Laputa |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2370 mm |
