1978 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
