1986 Mazda 929 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 929 (190 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 929 weights approximately 478 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mazda 929 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 1986 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1986 Mazda 929 (259 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1986 Mazda 929 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mazda 929 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 929 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 929 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2850 mm |
