1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Ford E-Series
To start off, 2013 Ford E-Series is newer by 25 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford E-Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford E-Series (222 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford E-Series should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford E-Series weights approximately 1741 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 2013 Ford E-Series 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 2013 Ford E-Series. 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, 2013 Ford E-Series (387 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Ford E-Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2013 Ford E-Series 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. 2013 Ford E-Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2013 Ford E-Series | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | E-Series |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2611 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 2085 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3505 mm |
