1984 Ford Sierra vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Sierra (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1984 Ford Sierra.
Because 1984 Ford Sierra 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 1984 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1984 Ford Sierra (216 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Sierra | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | 323 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
