1998 Dodge Durango vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Dodge Durango is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Durango (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 957 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango 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, 1998 Dodge Durango (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1998 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Durango | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 453 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2035 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |
