1988 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1997 Toyota Carina is newer by 9 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Carina (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Carina weights approximately 255 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Toyota Carina (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Carina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 1997 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Carina |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2590 mm |
