1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1962 Triumph Vitesse
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Triumph Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Triumph Vitesse would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1962 Triumph Vitesse. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1962 Triumph Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 209 kg more than 1962 Triumph Vitesse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Triumph Vitesse 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 1962 Triumph Vitesse. 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 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Triumph Vitesse. (125 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Triumph Vitesse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1962 Triumph Vitesse | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 323 | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 29 L |
