1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 19 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (317 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 388 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 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Mazda | Panoz |
| Model | 323 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
