2004 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
