1975 Ford Cortina vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1975 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 323 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1975 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Ford Cortina 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 1975 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Ford Cortina | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cortina | 323 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
