1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1968 Opel Olympia

To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Olympia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Olympia would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1968 Opel Olympia. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1968 Opel Olympia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1968 Opel Olympia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 Opel Olympia 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 1968 Opel Olympia. 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Opel Olympia. (86 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Opel Olympia.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mazda 323 1968 Opel Olympia
Make Mazda Opel
Model 323 Olympia
Year Released 1985 1968
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1324 cc 1078 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 66 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 101 Nm 86 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 786 kg