1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 285 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 1996 Ford Mustang 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 1996 Ford Mustang. 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 323 | Mustang |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 96.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |