1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Ford F-350
To start off, 2012 Ford F-350 is newer by 27 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-350 (385 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-350 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323.
Because 2012 Ford F-350 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 2012 Ford F-350. 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, 2012 Ford F-350 (548 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 411 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2012 Ford F-350 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. 2012 Ford F-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2012 Ford F-350 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | F-350 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 6269 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1961 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3967 mm |
