1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Rover P5B
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 Rover P5B. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Rover P5B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover P5B weights approximately 415 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1972 Rover P5B 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 1972 Rover P5B. 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, 1972 Rover P5B (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1972 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1972 Rover P5B | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | P5B |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2820 mm |
