2008 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2008 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
