1987 Mazda 323 vs. 1971 Morris Minor
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 323 (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1971 Morris Minor. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1971 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Morris Minor 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 1971 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Mazda 323 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 1971 Morris Minor | |
| Make | Mazda | Morris |
| Model | 323 | Minor |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2190 mm |
