1978 Mazda 818 vs. 1994 Rover 400
To start off, 1994 Rover 400 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Rover 400 (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Rover 400, 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, 1994 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 1994 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 818 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2560 mm |
