1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1969 Simca 1501
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Simca 1501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Simca 1501 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Simca 1501 (81 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Simca 1501 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Simca 1501 weights approximately 96 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Simca 1501 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 1969 Simca 1501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1969 Simca 1501 (124 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1969 Simca 1501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1969 Simca 1501 | |
| Make | Mazda | Simca |
| Model | 323 | 1501 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1475 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
