2009 Ford Focus vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 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, 2009 Ford Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
