1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1997 Toyota MR2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 280 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 Toyota MR2 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 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1997 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
