1976 Mazda 818 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 818 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 818 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
