1987 Ford Sierra vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (90 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Sierra weights approximately 9 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (143 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Sierra | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | 323 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
