1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 430 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 6 (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
