1956 Holden FE vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Holden FE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Holden FE would be higher. At 2,166 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Holden FE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1956 Holden FE. (60 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1956 Holden FE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1956 Holden FE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Holden FE 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 1956 Holden FE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Holden FE. (151 Nm @ 1200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Holden FE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Holden FE | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | FE | 323 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2166 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
