1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
