1977 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 22 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (77 HP @ 5350 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 198 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 1999 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (126 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 1999 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 42 L |
