1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Mazda 818
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1977 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 818 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 1977 Mazda 818. 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1977 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 818 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
