1991 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 405 kg more than 1991 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, 2009 Toyota Prius (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Prius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323. 2009 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
