1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Dion
To start off, 2001 Mitsubishi Dion is newer by 24 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mitsubishi Dion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mitsubishi Dion (133 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mitsubishi Dion should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Dion weights approximately 568 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, 2001 Mitsubishi Dion, 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, 2001 Mitsubishi Dion (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mitsubishi Dion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323. 2001 Mitsubishi Dion 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. 2001 Mitsubishi Dion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mitsubishi Dion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Dion |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
