1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 442 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
