1997 Mazda 323 vs. 1973 Rover 2000
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Rover 2000 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1973 Rover 2000. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1973 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Rover 2000 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 1973 Rover 2000 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 1973 Rover 2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Rover 2000. (172 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Rover 2000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 1973 Rover 2000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | 2000 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
