1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 346 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 Frontier 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
