1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1981 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover 3.5 (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2820 mm |
