1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Ford F-450
To start off, 2012 Ford F-450 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 6,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-450 (399 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323.
Because 2012 Ford F-450 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-450 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Ford F-450 (1,085 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 1016 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323. 2012 Ford F-450 has automatic transmission and 1977 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1977 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford F-450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2012 Ford F-450 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | F-450 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 6700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 399 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 1085 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 6680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 2438 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 2024 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 4379 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 142 L |
