1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1999 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 240 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, 1999 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1999 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1999 Nissan Maxima 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 | 1999 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
