1987 Ford Sierra vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Sierra | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | 323 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
