1987 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX (124 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan 260 ZX weights approximately 290 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan 260 ZX 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 Nissan 260 ZX. 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, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Nissan 260 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 1978 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
