2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 323 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 323 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1992 Mazda 323 (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
