1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 735 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 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
