1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 320 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.
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, 2010 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2010 Mazda 3 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. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2639 mm |
