2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 320 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.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
