1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Suzuki Vitara (75 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 25 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 Suzuki Vitara 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 Suzuki Vitara 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 Suzuki Vitara (123 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1988 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2210 mm |
