1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1994 Mazda 323
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 103 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1994 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taunus | 323 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |
