1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 894 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Ford Gran Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Gran Torino | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6553 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2014 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
