2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1992 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 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
