2006 Ford Ranger vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (86 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 1877 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
