1997 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
