1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForTwo. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Mazda | Smart |
Model | 323 | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 40 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 2510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 22 L |