1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mercury Villager
To start off, 2002 Mercury Villager 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 3,274 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercury Villager (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercury Villager weights approximately 680 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 Mercury Villager (271 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercury Villager will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Villager |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3274 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
