1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Porsche 944 (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Porsche 944 weights approximately 240 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 1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. 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 Porsche 944 (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 323 | 944 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
