1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Rover 220
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 220 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Rover 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Rover 220 (103 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Rover 220 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Rover 220 weights approximately 159 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 Rover 220 (210 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Rover 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Rover 220 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | 220 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 103 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
