1972 Austin Marina vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1972 Austin Marina. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Marina.
Because 1972 Austin Marina 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 1972 Austin Marina. 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, 1972 Austin Marina (145 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 Austin Marina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Marina | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Marina | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
