1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1990 Opel Lotus Omega
To start off, 1990 Opel Lotus Omega is newer by 5 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 3,615 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Opel Lotus Omega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Opel Lotus Omega (377 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Opel Lotus Omega should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Opel Lotus Omega weights approximately 723 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 1990 Opel Lotus Omega 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 1990 Opel Lotus Omega. 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, 1990 Opel Lotus Omega (568 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1990 Opel Lotus Omega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1990 Opel Lotus Omega | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Lotus Omega |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3615 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 377 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 568 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1663 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2740 mm |
