1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Suzuki Vitara (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 35 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 1997 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, 1997 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, 1997 Suzuki Vitara (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |
