1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 16 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus.
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, 2005 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2005 Ford Focus 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. 2005 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
