1971 Ford GT 70 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford GT 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford GT 70 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Ford GT 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1971 Ford GT 70. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford GT 70.
Because 1971 Ford GT 70 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 1971 Ford GT 70. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford GT 70. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford GT 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford GT 70 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | GT 70 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2510 mm |
