1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2002 Renault Laguna is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Laguna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Laguna (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Laguna should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Laguna weights approximately 543 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, 2002 Renault Laguna, 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, 2002 Renault Laguna (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Laguna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2002 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | Laguna |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
