2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Fusca 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 Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca. (106 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volkswagen Fusca | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Fusca |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
