1986 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Vauxhall Firenza
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,256 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Vauxhall Firenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 53 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Vauxhall Firenza weights approximately 30 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323.
Because 1972 Vauxhall Firenza 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 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1972 Vauxhall Firenza (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Vauxhall Firenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 1972 Vauxhall Firenza | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 323 | Firenza |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
