1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 20 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (156 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 344 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 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (162 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 323 | Altima |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2501 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 156 HP |
Torque | 104 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |