1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ferrari 308 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 1978 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 Ferrari 308 (283 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 308 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
