1983 Ford Capri vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Capri (205 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1983 Ford Capri 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 1983 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1983 Ford Capri (353 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Capri | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Capri | 323 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
