1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander is newer by 19 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1596 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 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 73 L |
