1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2009 Subaru Impreza is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Subaru Impreza. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 95 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 2009 Subaru Impreza is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Impreza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2009 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2619 mm |
