1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 352 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2007 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 86.4 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
