2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 484 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
