1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Mazda 323 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 1994 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1994 Mazda 323 (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Mazda 323 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 323 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1994 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 51 HP |
Torque | 103 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |