1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Dion
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Dion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion (133 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Dion weights approximately 530 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 Mitsubishi Dion (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Dion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mitsubishi Dion | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Dion |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
