1986 Ford Taurus vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 326 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1986 Ford Taurus (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Taurus | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
