2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1990 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
