1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 155 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, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taunus | 323 |
Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2620 mm |