1988 Ferrari 348 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,404 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ferrari 348 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 1988 Ferrari 348. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ferrari 348 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 348 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3404 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 50 L |
