1994 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Kia Carnival
To start off, 2012 Kia Carnival is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Kia Carnival is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Carnival (186 HP) has 112 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Carnival weights approximately 1039 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Mazda 323 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 1994 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Carnival, 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, 2012 Kia Carnival (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 2012 Kia Carnival | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 323 | Carnival |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 186 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 2024 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
