1997 Ford Falcon vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Ford Falcon is newer by 12 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 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (301 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 792 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 1997 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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, 1997 Ford Falcon (515 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Falcon | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Falcon | 323 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 515 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 154 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
