1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 3 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (175 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 368 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 323 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
