1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Plymouth Volare (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Plymouth Volare should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 318 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 1979 Plymouth Volare 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 1979 Plymouth Volare. 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, 1979 Plymouth Volare (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Plymouth Volare will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1979 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 323 | Volare |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
