1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Proton 300
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 300 (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1996 Proton 300.
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, 1998 Mazda 323 (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | 323 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
