1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 6 (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2002 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
