1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Subaru XT
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Subaru XT (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Subaru XT weights approximately 290 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Subaru XT 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, 1988 Subaru XT 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, 1988 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1988 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | XT |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
