1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Renault 9
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 9 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Renault 9. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 199 kg more than 1981 Renault 9. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Renault 9 (139 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Renault 9 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 9 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
