1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 7 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 98 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
