1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Mazda Sentia
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda Sentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda Sentia would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda Sentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda Sentia (158 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Sentia should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda Sentia weights approximately 496 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 Mazda Sentia 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 Mazda Sentia. 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 Mazda Sentia (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda Sentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1996 Mazda Sentia has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mazda Sentia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Mazda Sentia | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | Sentia |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2954 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1566 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |