1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Plymouth Barracuda would be higher. At 5,563 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Plymouth Barracuda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda (290 HP) has 187 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323.
Because 1970 Plymouth Barracuda 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 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. 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, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda (468 Nm) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm). This means 1970 Plymouth Barracuda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1970 Plymouth Barracuda | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 323 | Barracuda |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5563 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 290 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 102.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
