2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 20 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1090 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.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Nitro | 323 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 314 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |