1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP) has 302 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ferrari F355 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | F355 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
