2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX is newer by 14 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford C-MAX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford C-MAX (144 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 407 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 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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, 2003 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | C-MAX | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 50 L |
