1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Toyota MR2. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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, 2005 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2005 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2340 mm |
