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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 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 665 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.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 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. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
