1986 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,071 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 323 (53 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 323 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Subaru Rex 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 1978 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Mazda 323 (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 1978 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Rex |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1930 mm |
