1998 Ferrari 456M vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 456M is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (131 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 625 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ferrari 456M 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 1998 Ferrari 456M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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. 1998 Ferrari 456M has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ferrari 456M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 456M | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 456M | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 435 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 50 L |
