1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer 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 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2002 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3070 mm |
