2008 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 873 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (335 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
