1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (178 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 314 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 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy (196 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
