1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 480 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 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy (343 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2003 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
