2006 Dodge Ram vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Dodge Ram is newer by 17 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 8,276 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Ram (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1426 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 2006 Dodge Ram 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 2006 Dodge Ram. 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, 2006 Dodge Ram (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Ram | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8276 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 712 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2472 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 50 L |
