2003 Acura MDX vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Acura MDX is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura MDX (238 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura MDX weights approximately 1004 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura MDX 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, 2003 Acura MDX (333 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2003 Acura MDX has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura MDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura MDX | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | MDX | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
