2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 429 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 139 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 21.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
