1983 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Mustang weights approximately 10 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1983 Ford Mustang 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 1983 Ford Mustang. 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 (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Ford Mustang | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 323 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2460 mm |