1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1968 Morgan 4
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Morgan 4 (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Morgan 4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1968 Morgan 4.
Because 1968 Morgan 4 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 1968 Morgan 4. 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, 1968 Morgan 4 (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Morgan 4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1968 Morgan 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Morgan |
| Model | 323 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
