1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (170 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 363 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 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
