1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 60 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
