1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 242 kg more 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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 323 | L |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
