1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (75 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma 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 Mitsubishi Sigma. 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 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma 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. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | 323 | Sigma |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 117 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |