1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Ford E-350
To start off, 2012 Ford E-350 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1752 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 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350. 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 Ford E-350 (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2012 Ford E-350 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Ford E-350 | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 323 | E-350 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 5400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 255 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 474 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5504 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2017 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 2111 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3505 mm |