1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2001 Ford Ranger is newer by 12 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ranger. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Ranger weights approximately 642 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2001 Ford Ranger 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, 2001 Ford Ranger 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, 2001 Ford Ranger (203 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2001 Ford Ranger 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. 2001 Ford Ranger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3010 mm |
