1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 30 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-7 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 736 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, 2011 Mazda CX-7 (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2011 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2751 mm |
