2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 30 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 400 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. 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, 2007 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, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
