2000 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus would be higher. At 2,170 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (150 HP) has 76 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 323 weights approximately 187 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 323 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | 323 | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
