1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,069 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 323 (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 323 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2001 Smart ForTwo (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 323 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 1820 mm |
