1972 Alfa Romeo GTA vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 288 kg more than 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA 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 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. 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 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Alfa Romeo GTA | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | GTA | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2510 mm |
