2003 Mazda 323 vs. 1956 Rover P4

To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,638 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Rover P4 (108 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Rover P4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Rover P4 weights approximately 326 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1956 Rover P4 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 1956 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1956 Rover P4 (206 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1956 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323. 1956 Rover P4 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Rover P4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda 323 1956 Rover P4
Make Mazda Rover
Model 323 P4
Year Released 2003 1956
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 2638 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 97 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 206 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1486 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 52 L