1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2010 Smart ForTwo is newer by 21 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 70 more horse power than 2010 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2010 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2010 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 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 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2010 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 323 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 2695 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 1867 mm |
