1974 AC 428 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 AC 428 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 1974 AC 428. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1974 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | AC | Mazda |
| Model | 428 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
