1968 Dodge Dart vs. 1985 Mazda 323

To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Dodge Dart (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Dodge Dart should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Dodge Dart weights approximately 477 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 Dodge Dart 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 Dodge Dart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 Dodge Dart (353 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1968 Dodge Dart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Dodge Dart 1985 Mazda 323
Make Dodge Mazda
Model Dart 323
Year Released 1968 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5210 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 72 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 353 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1377 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1640 mm