1988 Mazda 323 vs. 1992 Mazda AZ-1
To start off, 1992 Mazda AZ-1 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda 323 (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. (63 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda 323 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda AZ-1 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 1992 Mazda AZ-1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Mazda 323 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. (88 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda AZ-1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 1992 Mazda AZ-1 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | AZ-1 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
