1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2002 Porsche Boxster 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche Boxster (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 215 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.
Because 2002 Porsche Boxster 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 2002 Porsche Boxster. 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, 2002 Porsche Boxster (320 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2002 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 2002 Porsche Boxster 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 | 2002 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 323 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
