1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1979 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru Rex.
Because 1979 Subaru Rex 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 1979 Subaru Rex. 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 (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1979 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Rex |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 1930 mm |
