1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2009 Toyota Tacoma 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 2,701 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Tacoma (157 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 141 kg more than 2009 Toyota Tacoma.
Because 2009 Toyota Tacoma 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 2009 Toyota Tacoma. 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2009 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3240 mm |
