1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Holden Sunbird (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Holden Sunbird 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 1978 Holden Sunbird. 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, 1978 Holden Sunbird (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1978 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | 323 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2590 mm |
