1968 AMC AMX vs. 1998 Mazda 323

To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 AMC AMX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 AMC AMX would be higher. At 6,386 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 AMC AMX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 AMC AMX (315 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 AMC AMX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 AMC AMX weights approximately 302 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 AMC AMX 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 1968 AMC AMX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1968 AMC AMX (576 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 AMC AMX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1968 AMC AMX has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 AMC AMX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 AMC AMX 1998 Mazda 323
Make AMC Mazda
Model AMX 323
Year Released 1968 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6386 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 315 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 576 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 105.8 mm 78 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.8 mm 78.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1377 kg 1075 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2620 mm