1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Mazda 929
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 929 (89 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 929 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 929 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 1981 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1981 Mazda 929 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1981 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 929 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
