1972 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1972 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. 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, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 De Tomaso Pantera | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Mazda |
| Model | Pantera | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 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 | 4280 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
