2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 305 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 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 323 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |