1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1319 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 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Express | 323 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2620 mm |
