2006 Honda Element vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Honda Element 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2006 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
