1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 14 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 4 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (138 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 192 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 323 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2685 mm |
