1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Honda Civic
To start off, 2003 Honda Civic is newer by 22 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Civic (108 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Civic weights approximately 240 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, 2003 Honda Civic (135 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2003 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 323 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2630 mm |
