1977 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Mazda 818
To start off, 1977 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mazda 818 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mazda 818 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Mazda 818 (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda 818 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 1972 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 818 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2320 mm |
