1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1983 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Nissan Silvia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Nissan Silvia (97 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Nissan Silvia should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1983 Nissan Silvia.
Because 1983 Nissan Silvia 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 1983 Nissan Silvia. 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, 1983 Nissan Silvia (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Nissan Silvia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1983 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Silvia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 97 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
