1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Morgan 4
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Morgan 4. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1981 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Morgan 4 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 1981 Morgan 4. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Morgan 4. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Morgan 4.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1981 Morgan 4 | |
Make | Mazda | Morgan |
Model | 323 | 4 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 132 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |