1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2004 Mercury Monterey is newer by 15 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 4,194 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Monterey (198 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 1141 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.
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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (359 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2004 Mercury Monterey 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. 2004 Mercury Monterey will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2011 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3210 mm |
