1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 1988 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (166 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 765 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
