1990 Ford Probe vs. 1977 Mazda 818
To start off, 1990 Ford Probe is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Probe weights approximately 250 kg more than 1977 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 818 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 1977 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Ford Probe, 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, 1990 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 1977 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | 818 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2320 mm |
