1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1998 Renault Safrane is newer by 13 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 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Renault Safrane (113 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Renault Safrane weights approximately 760 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, 1998 Renault Safrane (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1998 Renault Safrane 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. 1998 Renault Safrane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1998 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
