1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1976 Rover 2000
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Rover 2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Rover 2000 (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Rover 2000 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Rover 2000 weights approximately 286 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Rover 2000 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 1976 Rover 2000. 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, 1976 Rover 2000 (272 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1976 Rover 2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1976 Rover 2000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | 2000 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2640 mm |
