1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2000 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2000 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 2 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 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2000 Suzuki Vitara. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2000 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 125 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2000 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2000 Suzuki Vitara 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Suzuki Vitara. (138 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Suzuki Vitara. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2000 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 2000 Suzuki Vitara 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 | 2000 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2210 mm |
