2006 Ford GT vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Ford GT is newer by 8 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford GT (550 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 462 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford GT should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford GT weights approximately 489 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 2006 Ford GT 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 2006 Ford GT. 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, 2006 Ford GT (678 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 544 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford GT | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | GT | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 550 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 678 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1584 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
