1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1984 Renault 5
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1984 Renault 5.
Because 1984 Renault 5 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 1984 Renault 5. 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, 1984 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1984 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
