1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
