1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 603 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
