1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Nissan Armada
To start off, 2009 Nissan Armada is newer by 24 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 5,552 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Armada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Armada (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Armada should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Armada weights approximately 620 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 2009 Nissan Armada is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Nissan Armada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Nissan Armada (522 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Armada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2009 Nissan Armada 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. 2009 Nissan Armada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2009 Nissan Armada | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Armada |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1970 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3140 mm |
