1998 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Honda Civic is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda Civic weights approximately 320 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Honda Civic (175 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Civic | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2370 mm |
