1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 745 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1997 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
