2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1069 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 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2410 mm |
