1978 Ford Capri vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Capri | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Capri | 323 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
