1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1969 Morris Minor
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1969 Morris Minor. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1969 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 246 kg more than 1969 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1969 Morris Minor | |
| Make | Mazda | Morris |
| Model | 323 | Minor |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 64.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
