2004 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 15 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 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (391 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 295 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 2004 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (543 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 391 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 543 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2460 mm |
