1980 Mazda 929 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda 929 weights approximately 74 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1980 Mazda 929 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 1980 Mazda 929. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda 929 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 929 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
