1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | R2 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
