2009 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1978 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 3,727 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (268 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen 1302.
Because 1978 Volkswagen 1302 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 1978 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (269 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen 1302 has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen 1302 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-9 | 1978 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | CX-9 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3727 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 269 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
