1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta 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 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta weights approximately 32 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 Alfa Romeo Alfetta 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 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. 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 Alfa Romeo Alfetta (141 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alfa Romeo Alfetta | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Alfetta | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
