1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Porsche 924
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Porsche 924. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Porsche 924 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Porsche 924 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Porsche 924. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Porsche 924. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Porsche 924 weights approximately 134 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1978 Porsche 924 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 Porsche 924. 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, both vehicles can yield 164 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1978 Porsche 924 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 323 | 924 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
