1996 Ford Mondeo vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Ford Mondeo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mondeo (89 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 408 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mondeo, 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, 1996 Ford Mondeo (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mondeo | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mondeo | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
