1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 476 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 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 Shelby GT500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 Shelby GT500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 587 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mazda 323 | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 323 | Shelby GT500 |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 5400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 550 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 104 Nm | 691 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1800 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |