1997 Ford Ranger vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Ford Ranger is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 535 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1997 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ranger | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ranger | 323 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1071 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 198 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |