2008 Ford Ranger vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ranger weights approximately 182 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 Ford Ranger (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ranger | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2970 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 50 L |
