1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2001 Mazda Roadster is newer by 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2001 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2001 Mazda Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Mazda Roadster (196 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda Roadster 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 | 2001 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
