2006 Kia Carens vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Kia Carens 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Carens (111 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Carens weights approximately 1015 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 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carens, 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 Kia Carens (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Carens | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
