1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2006 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 17 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 2,701 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Tacoma (159 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 277 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.
Because 2006 Toyota Tacoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Tacoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Toyota Tacoma (244 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2006 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2790 mm |
