1973 Jaguar XJ vs. 1987 Mazda 323

To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Jaguar XJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Jaguar XJ would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1973 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Jaguar XJ (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 965 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Jaguar XJ (409 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323. 1973 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Jaguar XJ 1987 Mazda 323
Make Jaguar Mazda
Model XJ 323
Year Released 1973 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5344 cc 1324 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 251 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 409 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1835 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1480 mm