1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 325 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
