2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 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 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 2 (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 196 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.
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, 2002 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2002 Mazda 2 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 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2460 mm |
