2008 Cadillac STS vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 19 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac STS weights approximately 766 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 2008 Cadillac STS 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 2008 Cadillac STS. 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, 2008 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2008 Cadillac STS 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. 2008 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac STS | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | STS | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1812 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 50 L |
