1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 1988 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda Cosmo | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | Cosmo | 323 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |