1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 18 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (119 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 480 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
