1984 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 408 kg more than 1984 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
