1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2008 Ford Falcon is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Falcon (362 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Falcon weights approximately 576 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 2008 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 2008 Ford Falcon. 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, 2008 Ford Falcon (533 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Falcon |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 533 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1704 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4967 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1868 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2838 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
