1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS-V
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS-V is newer by 23 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS-V (556 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 416 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS-V should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS-V weights approximately 869 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 2012 Cadillac CTS-V 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 2012 Cadillac CTS-V. 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS-V (746 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 582 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Cadillac CTS-V | |
| Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
| Model | 323 | CTS-V |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 556 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 746 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
