1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2004 Panoz AIV is newer by 23 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz AIV weights approximately 330 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, 2004 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2004 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Mazda | Panoz |
| Model | 323 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
