1971 Chevrolet Vega 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 Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Vega 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 Vega. 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 Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Vega | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
