1987 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2012 Nissan Frontier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 1108 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 2012 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3200 mm |
