1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 323 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 33 L |
