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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Suzuki Vitara (79 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2000 Suzuki Vitara.
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, 2000 Suzuki Vitara (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
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 | 1324 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
