2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca.
Because 1996 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 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volkswagen Fusca | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Fusca |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 52 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
