1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Skoda L
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1986 Skoda L. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1986 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 243 kg more than 1986 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Skoda L 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 1986 Skoda L. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Skoda L. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1986 Skoda L has manual transmission. 1986 Skoda L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1986 Skoda L | |
| Make | Mazda | Skoda |
| Model | 323 | L |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
