2008 Ford Fusion vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fusion | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2620 mm |
