1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am weights approximately 642 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 2001 Pontiac Trans Am 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 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am (455 Nm) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
