1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 1988 Nissan Prairie is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Nissan Prairie (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Nissan Prairie should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Nissan Prairie weights approximately 78 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Nissan Prairie (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Nissan Prairie will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1988 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Prairie |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
