1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Mazda 323 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 323 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-4 | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
