2006 Ford Focus vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 29 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 903 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, 2006 Ford Focus, 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, 2006 Ford Focus (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
