1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Baleno 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 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Baleno. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Baleno. 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 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Baleno. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Baleno.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2001 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Baleno |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
