2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
