2003 Alpina B7 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Alpina B7 is newer by 18 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 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 420 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1090 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 2003 Alpina B7 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 2003 Alpina B7. 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, 2003 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 589 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2003 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B7 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B7 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4399 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1640 mm |
