1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2001 Toyota Highlander is newer by 13 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Highlander (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 815 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.
Because 2001 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander 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, 2001 Toyota Highlander (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2001 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2001 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
