2006 Ford Ranger vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 350 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Ford Ranger (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2410 mm |
