1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 344 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 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. 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 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-7 | 323 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |