1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 24 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TL (305 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 930 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 2012 Acura TL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL 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 Acura TL (370 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2012 Acura TL 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. 2012 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2012 Acura TL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | 323 | TL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4928 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2776 mm |
