1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Rover 400
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 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400.
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 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 323 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
