1971 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 1971 Chevrolet Impala. 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, 1971 Chevrolet Impala (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Impala | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2510 mm |
