1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2006 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 9 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 3,538 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2006 Toyota RAV4.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2006 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3538 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
