1999 Ford Fiesta vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1999 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1999 Ford Fiesta (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Fiesta | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 323 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 922 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
