2001 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Ford Mustang is newer by 12 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Mustang (187 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Mustang weights approximately 366 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 2001 Ford Mustang 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 2001 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2001 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Mustang | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1412 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
