1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1986 Opel Rekord is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Opel Rekord (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Opel Rekord weights approximately 366 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Opel Rekord 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 1986 Opel Rekord. 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, 1986 Opel Rekord (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1986 Opel Rekord 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. 1986 Opel Rekord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1986 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1306 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
