1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Datsun 1000 (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Datsun 1000 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mazda 323 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Mazda 323 (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1000 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2460 mm |
