1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Hyundai Genesis
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Genesis 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Genesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Genesis (385 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Genesis should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Genesis weights approximately 610 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Hyundai Genesis 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 2012 Hyundai Genesis. 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, 2012 Hyundai Genesis (451 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Genesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2012 Hyundai Genesis 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. 2012 Hyundai Genesis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda 323 | 2012 Hyundai Genesis | |
Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
Model | 323 | Genesis |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 385 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 451 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4986 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1481 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2936 mm |