1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1959 Steyr 500D
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Steyr 500D. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Steyr 500D would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1959 Steyr 500D. (19 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1959 Steyr 500D. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1959 Steyr 500D. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Steyr 500D 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 1959 Steyr 500D. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Steyr 500D. (32 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Steyr 500D.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1959 Steyr 500D | |
| Make | Mazda | Steyr |
| Model | 323 | 500D |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1959 |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 19 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 32 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 2970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
