1998 Ford Libre vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Ford Libre is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,323 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Libre (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Libre should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Libre weights approximately 428 kg more than 1988 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, 1998 Ford Libre (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Libre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Libre | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Libre | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 870 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
