1972 Honda Z vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1972 Honda Z. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1972 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Z | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
