1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 13 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 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (350 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 454 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (485 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 323 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 5666 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
