1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chevrolet Vega (81 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
Because 1973 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 1973 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1973 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 323 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
