1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Subaru 1.8
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru 1.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru 1.8 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru 1.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru 1.8 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1986 Subaru 1.8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru 1.8 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, 1986 Subaru 1.8 (197 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru 1.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1986 Subaru 1.8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | 1.8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
