1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 MCC Smart
To start off, 2002 MCC Smart is newer by 14 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, 2002 MCC Smart (80 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda 323 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2002 MCC Smart.
Because 2002 MCC Smart 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 2002 MCC Smart. 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, 2002 MCC Smart (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2002 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Mazda | MCC |
| Model | 323 | Smart |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 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 | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
