2009 Alpina B7 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Alpina B7 is newer by 11 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B7 (493 HP) has 419 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B7 weights approximately 843 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 2009 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 2009 Alpina B7. 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, 2009 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 591 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B7 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B7 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
