1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda 323 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 323 | Frontier |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3954 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1880 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3200 mm |