1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (153 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
