2002 Honda Insight vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Honda Insight is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 994 cc (3 cylinders), 2002 Honda Insight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Insight (67 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda Insight weights approximately 28 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Insight, 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, 2002 Honda Insight (123 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Insight | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Insight | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 994 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2320 mm |
