1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Toyota Prius
To start off, 1999 Toyota Prius 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 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Prius (127 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 560 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1999 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
