1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2012 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 27 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 1056 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 2012 Toyota 4Runner 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 2012 Toyota 4Runner. 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, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (376 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2012 Toyota 4Runner 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. 2012 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2012 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4823 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1925 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2789 mm |
