1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 240 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.
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, 1996 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
