1977 Ford Taunus vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (66 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1977 Ford Taunus. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Ford Taunus weights approximately 275 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Taunus. 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 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Taunus | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taunus | 323 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 66 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
