1963 Mazda R 360 vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1969 Riley Kestrel is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Riley Kestrel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Riley Kestrel (64 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1963 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel should accelerate faster than 1963 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Riley Kestrel weights approximately 530 kg more than 1963 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Mazda R 360 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 1963 Mazda R 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1969 Riley Kestrel (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Mazda R 360. (23 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 Riley Kestrel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Mazda R 360 | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Mazda | Riley |
| Model | R 360 | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 380 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 25 L |
