1983 Ford Orion vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | 323 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
