1977 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 1997 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Intrepid (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 693 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.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Intrepid, 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 Dodge Intrepid (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323. 1997 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1977 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1977 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 323 | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 214 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
