1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1970 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1970 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1970 Datsun 240Z 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 1970 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1970 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1970 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1970 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 323 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2300 mm |
