2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (109 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 214 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
