1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Subaru Forester
To start off, 1999 Subaru Forester is newer by 10 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Forester. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Subaru Forester weights approximately 339 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1999 Subaru Forester 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, 1999 Subaru Forester 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, 1999 Subaru Forester (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1999 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1999 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1999 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Forester |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2530 mm |
