2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 19 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 568 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 2004 Alpina B3 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 2004 Alpina B3. 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 270 km/hour | 154 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
