1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 2003 Pontiac GTO is newer by 14 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac GTO (350 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 644 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 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 2003 Pontiac GTO. 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, 2003 Pontiac GTO (495 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2003 Pontiac GTO 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. 2003 Pontiac GTO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2003 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | GTO |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 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 | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
