2008 Honda Element vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2008 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
