1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1993 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Toyota MR2 (241 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Toyota MR2 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 1993 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1993 Toyota MR2 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1993 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
