1996 Buick Roadmaster vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Buick Roadmaster is newer by 11 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Buick Roadmaster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Roadmaster (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Roadmaster should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Roadmaster weights approximately 950 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Buick Roadmaster 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 1996 Buick Roadmaster. 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, 1996 Buick Roadmaster (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 336 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Roadmaster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1996 Buick Roadmaster 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. 1996 Buick Roadmaster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Roadmaster | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Roadmaster | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1640 mm |
