2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2.
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, 1989 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
