1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Honda Insight
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight is newer by 15 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 44 more horse power than 2012 Honda Insight. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Insight weights approximately 37 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Insight. (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Insight.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2012 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 323 | Insight |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
